Ahmedabad is the thriving economic and industrial hub nestled in the heart of Gujarat with a rich heritage of architecture, design, textiles and food. Home to centuries-old architectural marvels with Mughal and Hindu influences, the city is best-known for preserving a rich tradition of architecture and design whilst charting the path for modern architecture in India with renowned internationalists like BV Doshi, Le Corbusier, Louis Kahn and Charles Correa.

Ahmedabad is considered to be one of the safest cities in India. With low crime rates and the culture of the neighbourly watch, one can live in the city with a feeling of security. The city has an active police force that promotes the safety of women on the streets and takes preventive measures for criminal activities. Additionally, the state of Gujarat is a dry state, hence alcohol consumption is permitted in the city only if one has procured a certificate or a license from the local government body. The local people treat outsiders with the utmost respect and are often friendly and resourceful that prove to be excellent traits for a guided tour of the city.

While in Ahmedabad, one cannot miss the opportunity to be a part of the world’s longest dance festival – Navratri, where people of all ages gather in autumn to dance to the tune of folk music to celebrate the victory of Goddess Durga over demon Mahishasura. The winter festival of Uttarayan on January 14-15 is celebrated with colourful kites in the sky. During this time, Ahmedabad hosts an international kite festival every year on the riverfront along the banks of Sabarmati. During Uttarayan, one can spot most city-dwellers lounged on terraces, either delighting over winter delicacies or engaged in a kite-flying duel with a neighbour. Come festive season one can be assured of experiencing contagious joy and merriment.

The food experience in Ahmedabad is varied. The city has a colourful street-food culture and many marketplaces in the city transform into a food-hawkers gathering at night-time, like Manekchowk, Bhatiyaar Gali, Law Garden, etc. For those who prefer to explore the local cuisine, the city has a wide array of dining areas that serve elaborate Gujarati thalis that are immersed in local flavour and culture. However, the simplest taste of ‘Amdavadi’ culture can be found at the local ‘chai kitli’, where one can hang out and engage in a conversation over a piping hot cup of tea.